Aircraft Maintenance & Support Engineer Review

I've had 3 placements, 2 on air bases working alongside the RAF and one at a main site. I've done various roles, including inventory optimisation, reliability and central maintenance governance. I've done work based on spreadsheet creation, data manipulation and document creation. Daily roles have varied from reporting status of availability, investigating maintenance software releases and tracking down and combining unlinked data sources.

I have developed my excel skills, gaining an understanding of database manipulation and a brief intro into macros. I've been exposed to a modern maintenance software and feel comfortable creating 'environments' to test new releases. Otherwise my role hasn't been very skill-focused within maintenance, rather based on competencies and interpersonal skills.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the company. the context of the work and the proximity to the product in maintenance has been a massive bonus for myself. There's a strong and large graduate network that has made my experience full and I've had the luxury of travelling for work and living in different areas of the country.

Our program has been discontinued but contained a level 7 qualification which added a large amount of structure. Additionally support development towards UK Eng chartership has been a massive help, although taxing. The course has flexibility which I have used to move about the country and try new experiences but ultimately the scheme has been quite structured and has given me a lot of personal confidence and reassurance through my early career.

Quite a lot. With placement managers, line managers, mentors, early careers, HR, skills coaches, colleague and peers there's an abundance of people who are willing to talk and support you when you need advice, help, of a pick up. There are courses and personal effectiveness training sessions that have enhanced my experienced and filled in the gaps that university can't always prepare you for.

BAE know that you are entitled to a % of time to commit to your qualification. however the actual time needed for 'off the job training' is quite a bit larger than is allowed. Most managers understand this and accommodate but it can cause a strain regardless when committing to placement work. Generally a sensible conversation with a manager will resole most issues and the company and qualification provider have been flexible in working this solution.

Ultimately they have felt like somewhat separate skills. this might be because of my profession, but i think its because a lot of the skills taught become relevant when you climb the ranks and need a broader range of skills/knowledge. I haven't found to use the new information but i can apply the knowledge to some conversations at a superficial level.

yes, a lot of sites have communities that do things like sports, outings, conferences and informal social events. Especially within early careers there are so many people keen to meet up for drinks or events and can be organised through the workplace. Sponsored or self funded events happen quite frequently.

Yes

Very supportive company, flexible and exiting with a large variety of experiences. Lots of locations, although not all easily accessible as a new starter. Exciting products and genuinely world leading experience in various fields if you find the right teams. Good salary, nice people, good pensions and share incentive scheme.

get ready to have a nice chat, be friendly and open. BAE is very social and they want to know that they will get along with you. Talk about experience in teams, overcoming challenges, hobbies and how you spend your spare time. BAE look for wholesome characters who are dependable and practical.